Slate Backsplash SNAFU

[bdkneela]

Hello all,

I put up Multi-Colored Slate tiles in my kitchen this weekend that I bought from Lowes. I made the mistake of thinking that I sealed them with a semi-gloss finish (Tile Guard Acrylic Semi-Gloss) only to find that when I began grouting using the Tec Invision grout, the grout wasn't coming off the stoned very well leaving a haze on the tiles.

I did try the 50.50 vinegar water solution as well as a Grout Haze remover product and neither really worked. I called the Tec Invision people this morning and they recommended using 70/30 solution of Simple Green and water. I plan on trying that tonight.

Fortunately we only did 1/3 of the kitchen so the rest of the tiles just have the Semi-Gloss finish on them. My question is this, once I remove the grout haze and then re-apply the semi-gloss finish to get back to where I was before I screwed everything up, what product would you recommend to seal the tiles and give them a nice medium wet look?

Finally, once I do get the tiles clean, how can I ensure that the finish will be even across the whole backsplash? Should I keep on with the semi-gloss and then cover it with a sealer?

Sorry for all the questions just really don't want to screw this up more than I already have..

Regards,
Brian

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[doitright]

Hi Brian, Welcome! :)

First, you're using the wrong product for the job. That slate is going to require a grout release if you really want to be able to get it clean after grouting. You may also want to concentrate on grouting only the joints, instead of the entire tile.

After you've got the tile clean, and removed the grout release, let everything dry out and cure. This can be followed by Sparks Stone Glamor or your topical treatment (since it's a back splash in a non wet environment).

[bdkneela]

John,

Thanks for the reply. So after reading up on the grout release product here is what I understood and please correct me if I am mistaken.

1. Remove remaining Grout haze on grouted portion of kitchen (Simple Green or Acid remover from Home depot)
2. Use Penetrating Sealer on all tiles
3. Use Grout release after Sealer is dry
4. Grout remaining portion of tiles and touch-up grout lines (grout bag?)
5. Wipe off grout with sponge and micro-fiber cloth
6. use Sparks Stone Glamor or equivalent to achieve wet-look

Here is am image of the grouted section after applying the Simple Green last night.

[doitright]

Hi Brian :)

Thanks for the photo!

Since this is a slate mosaic, don't try using a grout bag.

If you're going to use Sparks Stone Glamor, use either impregnating sealer or grout release, not both (preferably grout release).